Van Buren County Cooling Centers Available During Extreme Heat

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Van Buren County Cooling Centers Available During Extreme Heat

Van Buren County, Michigan — With dangerously high temperatures expected, the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. Several cooling centers throughout Van Buren County are available to provide a safe, air-conditioned environment for anyone needing relief from the heat.

Young children, older adults, individuals with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, and those without access to air conditioning are especially vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.

Recognizing Heat-Related Illness

Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion can develop after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms may include:

• Heavy sweating
• Weakness or fatigue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cool, pale, clammy skin

If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion, move them to a cool location, provide water if they are conscious, loosen clothing, and apply cool, wet cloths.

Heat Stroke – A Medical Emergency
Heat stroke is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include:

• Body temperature above 103°F
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Slurred speech
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures

If you believe someone is suffering from heat stroke or another life-threatening heat-related emergency, call 911 immediately.

Van Buren County Cooling Center Locations

Antwerp Activity Center
24821 Front Avenue
Mattawan, MI
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Bronson Wellness Center
950 S. Bailey Avenue
South Haven, MI
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 5:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
For updated information and additional cooling station days, call 269-639-2949.

Van Buren District Library Cooling Locations

Antwerp Sunshine Library
24823 Front Avenue
Mattawan, MI 49071
Monday–Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Bangor Branch
420 Division Street
Bangor, MI 49013
Monday–Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Bloomingdale Branch
109 East Kalamazoo Avenue
Bloomingdale, MI 49026
Monday–Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Covert Branch
33680 M-140 Highway
Covert, MI 49043
Monday–Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Gobles Branch
105 East Main Street
Gobles, MI 49055
Monday–Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Lawrence Branch
212 North Paw Paw Street
Lawrence, MI 49064
Monday–Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Webster Memorial Library
200 North Phelps Street
Decatur, MI 49045
Monday–Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Heat Safety Tips

• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Never leave children, older adults, or pets unattended in a parked vehicle.
• Check on elderly neighbors, relatives, and those with medical conditions who may need assistance.
• Seek air-conditioned spaces whenever possible if your home is not adequately cooled.

The Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to take the current heat seriously. Planning ahead and recognizing the signs of heat-related illness can save lives.

For life-threatening emergencies related to excessive heat, call 911 immediately.